Traditional braces are a tried and true way to straighten a misaligned smile, but they involve conspicuous, irremovable metal parts and frustrating dietary restrictions that can make the treatment difficult for many people. Thankfully, Invisalign is an excellent way to realign minor to moderate malocclusions with removable clear aligners that allow patients to eat whatever they like. Here’s a brief overview of how the treatment works and how long it can take.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses transparent plastic braces to gradually shift teeth into healthier and more beautiful positions. These devices are designed to be easily removed, so patients will be able to continue performing oral hygiene normally while enjoying any foods or beverages they like. However, the patient will need to wear their aligners for at least twenty hours daily and switch to a new set of appliances every two weeks or so. Neglecting to wear your clear aligners sufficiently can lead to frustrating and potentially costly treatment delays.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Most Invisalign treatments will take between six and sixteen months to complete, but there are some cases that take more or less time than that. Generally, more severe misalignments will take longer to treat since they can require teeth to be moved greater distances, complicated motions such as turning a tooth, and possibly attachments such as elastics.
How Can I Keep My Invisalign Treatment on Track?
The best way to keep your Invisalign process on schedule is to strictly adhere to your dentist’s treatment instructions. These will probably include:
- Wearing your aligners at least twenty hours daily.
- Removing your aligners only for meals and oral hygiene sessions.
- Thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth and rinsing your aligners before wearing your appliances again.
- Storing your aligners in a sturdy, clean protective case when not wearing them.
- Cleaning your aligners once a day with Invisalign cleaning crystals or a soft-bristled brush and unscented mild hand soap.
- Contacting your dentist promptly if your aligners are lost or damaged.
Don’t let your Invisalign treatment be driven off course by a few bad habits. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your realignment process on schedule.
About the Author
Dr. Cornelia Dadaciu earned her dental degree at the Ovidius University School of Dentistry as well as a second degree at the Nova Southeastern University School of Dentistry. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association as well as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Her office in Delray Beach offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign services. To learn more about the Invisalign process, contact her office online or dial (561) 404-4804.